I like the nightlife: Percy’s Bar and Kitchen raising the bar in Orange

By
TRACEY PRISK

OPENING SOON: Sydney businessmen Fraser Houghton says he and his business partner Chris Cornforth are excited about showcasing local food at their new venture, Percy’s Bar & Kitchen.
Photo: STEVE GOSCH

ORANGE’s growing reputation as a food and wine hub was a major factor in Sydney businessmen Fraser Houghton and Chris Cornforth’s decided to relocate from Sydney and open a new venue on the corner of Sale and Summer streets.

Mr Houghton said the fit-out of the 170 square metre site which will house Percy’s Bar & Kitchen and a small take-away gourmet hamburger shop attached, will begin next week in the lead- up to an October opening.

Having both been involved in establishing a number of small bars in Sydney, Mr Houghton and Mr Cornforth decided Orange was the perfect place for their next venture.

“Orange became the most obvious choice, it has the right elements to support something like this,” Mr Houghton said.

“It also has a lively nightlife.”

Mr Houghton said the fact that their new bar will be located in the main street, and close to Lolli Redini restaurant and the Union Bank, were major drawcards.

Mr Houghton said the pair had enlisted the help of Sydney designer firm Luchetti Krelle to give the venue a unique look.

“There will be a lot of steel furnishings with a concrete floor and timber tables,” he said.

“It will have an industrial look but still be warm and cosy.”

Mr Houghton said patrons can expect to enjoy modern Australian food, often served on share plates, prepared by local chef Paul Seale.

“We want to showcase what the food around here has to offer,” he said.

Mr Houghton said he hoped Percy’s will appeal to people of all ages, including children.

“We’re not planning on going anywhere else soon, this is a good business opportunity and we want this to work in the long term.”